Dr. Gleb Tsipursky – The Office Whisperer
Nirit Cohen – WorkFutures
Angela Howard – Culture Expert
Drew Jones – Design & Innovation
Jonathan Price – CRE & Flex Expert
Although open spaced offices have dramatically rose in popularity, trends in the workplace have started to stray from this new norm.
While the “anti-office” platform has been embraced, Joburg design outfit HesseKleinloog of The Business Exchange express that all clients needs should be met. The Business Exchange features very open and collaborative spaces, as well as private ones.
Design company Lemon have taken note of the “home away from home” trend. Offices are making their spaces as comfortable as they are functional. They agree that the popularity of open-plan environments is not as effective as a multi-use office space and should meet the needs of all members.
“For Lemon we worked with our friends at HesseKleinloog to create a space that feels luxurious and relaxing. We work in a fast-paced industry and it is important for our staff and our customers to feel a sense of calm in the space. That’s why you will see a lot of rich colour and texture throughout.”
Cape Town-based design studio Bone worked on mobile data-only networks at Rain and Prodigy Finance. An office trend they have taken note of is private offices offering more collaborative spaces for clients, as well as the overall shift from sole open-space offices.
“There’s a move away from open plan as a whole – it’s not conducive to focused work, so now the emphasis is on flexible spaces (meeting rooms that become private offices, as well as phone call booths and so forth).”
They have also taken note on the wellbeing aspect of clients, with more offices including yoga rooms and quiet zones.
The Tiny Empire, a shared workspace in Cape Town, is ran by Marco Simal and Justin Rhodes who share the idea that the open office concept does not work for everyone.
Tiny Empire has reflected this shift by creating small office suites within their space. This allows clients to have their own headquarters within the office, but still have the benefits of a shared lobby.
Tétris checked is a full-service design, fit-out and refurbishment specialist that notes a trend in cross-work spaces— offices that encourages certain businesses to network and take advantage of each others strengths.
They also take note in offices putting an emphasis on green initiatives, with simple shifts as reducing plastic bottle usage, an inclusion of natural light, statement ceilings, and spa-like bathrooms that reflect the comfort of your own home.
